As a full-size luxury SUV, the Lincoln Navigator (Presidential) comes with indulgent luxury touch points at every turn, evident from the moment I opened the door for my one week drive experience.

Capable of producing 450 horsepower and 691 Nm of torque, the Lincoln Presidential made me feel like I owned the road. The twin-turbo 3.5-litre engine provides power delivered through a 10-speed transmission. Twin-turbocharged engine technology provided the fuel economy on demand, with the power and performance I needed and desired for different drive modes.

Inside, the three rows seats offer ample space and the front of the interior layout is clean and uncluttered, with a simple, soothing ambience. The all-new Navigator comes with six USB ports, four 12-volt power outlets, a 230-volt plug and a wireless phone charger in the first-row centre console. Individual driver preferences can be set for adapting seat, mirror and pedal positions, as well as climate control and entertainment settings.

A standard rear-seat entertainment system allows passengers to stream content wirelessly with their device to one of the 10-inch adjustable screens mounted on the rear of the front seats. Content also can be accessed from SD cards, an HDMI cable or USB drive.

Each screen can display different content, allowing a personalised entertainment experience for every passenger enjoyed using Revel® Ultima audio with 20 speakers that work in concert with Navigator’s interior design and acoustics.

The 360-degree camera and Enhanced Park Assist is a saviour for divers who stress about parallel and perpendicular parking. The system integrates views from four cameras to create an overhead image so the driver can see all around the vehicle.

The exterior of the Lincoln Navigator Presidential has an enhanced design language that is both bold and flashy and fits into the full-size luxury SUV segment. It is an athletic yet refined silhouette that makes it appealing to both men and women who need to make a style statement.

Driving the Lincoln Presidential for a week was an absolute delight – it offered me a uniquely elevated automotive experience that my love for combined luxury, sport and regal design in one space. It is the answer to luxury travel on wheels, perfect for road trips and equally at home in front of a luxury hotel entrance.

Recently, McLaren Automotive revived the legendary ‘Longtail’ name with the launch of the 675LT Coupé, minimising weight and optimising aerodynamics in parallel with increasing power, track focussed dynamics and driver engagement.

True to the spirit of its ‘Longtail’ predecessor and the traits inherent to a car wearing the LT badge, the 675LT Coupé earlier was acknowledged as the purest, most involving series-production McLaren supercar at launch.

Now as only the fourth ‘Longtail’ McLaren in more than two decades, the McLaren 600LT marks the beginning of the next chapter in the McLaren ‘Longtail’ (LT) story and at the same time sets a new sportscar benchmark as the fastest, most powerful and most track-focused, yet road legal Sports Series McLaren has created.

The McLaren 600LT is built to excel on roads and race circuits alike with an extended front splitter, lengthened rear diffuser and fixed rear wing. Built using the lightweight carbon fibre monocoque chassis for which McLaren is renowned, the 600LT further benefits from new carbon fibre bodywork that lowers vehicle weight as well as optimising aerodynamic performance.

Unique top-exit exhausts ensure that the new LT model has a distinct aesthetic appearance that identifies it as something particularly special, as well as delivering a substantial weight saving and anincredible aural experience.

To deliver the extreme performance appropriate for an LT, the McLaren 600LT is powered by a twin-turbocharged, 3.8-litre V8 engine that benefits from an uprated cooling system and reduced back pressure in an exhaust system that is even shorter and more extreme than that of the McLaren Senna. Peak power is 600PS (592bhp), with maximum torque of 620Nm (457lb ft) and thepower-to-weight ratio of the McLaren 600LT at lightest dry weight is an astonishing 481PS/tonne.

The new model features the forged aluminium double-wishbone suspension and lightweight braking system from the second-generation McLaren Super Series; bespoke, track-focused Pirelli Trofeo R tyres; quicker steering; sharpened responses from the throttle and brake pedals; significantly firmer engine mounts and exhausts that are mounted virtually behind the driver’s shoulder to bring the incredible sound of the powertrain into the cabin.

The driver is encouraged by the deep-rooted and incredibly pure connection with the car to fully exploit the optimised aerodynamics, reduced weight, increased power and track-focused dynamics. This higher level of excellence and engagement is the ethos at the heart of the McLaren 600LT, just as it was with the McLaren 675LT models and the McLaren F1 GTR ‘Longtail’ before them.

Volume of the new McLaren LT will also be strictly limited. Production of the 600LT Coupé will begin in October 2018 and last for around 12 months, with build slots scheduled around existing Sports and Super Series models, as well as the sell-out Senna, Senna GTR and BP23. The specialist carbon fibre body panels of the 600LT will also ensure that it is significantly rarer than its Sports Series brethren.

Like its 675LT predecessors, each 600LT will be hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre in Woking, Surrey. Available to order now from McLaren retailers, the McLaren 600LT Coupé is subject to availability.

Twenty-six years from its last Grand Prix, the Minardi M191B chassis #003, equipped with a Lamborghini LE3512 V12 engine and one of the protagonists of Formula One in 1992, is back on the track.

The exciting shakedown organized by Lamborghini Squadra Corse is the result of a meticulous restoration carried out by Lamborghini Polo Storico with the support of former Lamborghini engineering personnel who were active on the Lamborghini F1 project in the early ’90s.

The Minardi M191B #003 is the first single-seater to be restored by Polo Storico. After being on display at the Lamborghini Museum in Sant’Agata Bolognese, the car underwent seven months of work to return to its original efficiency, with most of the original components maintained.

The tires, fuel tank, engine control unit, seat belts, and fire extinguishing system were replaced, while the other components were carefully restored, starting from the engine designed by Mauro Forghieri. The 12-cylinder LE3512 is still able to deliver the original almost 700 HP, enabling enthusiasts to relive the emotions of the golden years of Formula One.

The guests of honor on the occasion of its grand return are Mirko Bortolotti, Lamborghini factory driver, and Giancarlo Minardi. The founder of the Faenza-based team recalled the fruitful collaboration with Lamborghini that lasted for the entire 1992 season: “Seeing the models of 25 or 30 years ago is still exciting. They are the last cars before the beginning of telemetry and automatic transmissions. Apart from the growling noise, which still today brings back those wonderful times, it was a very flexible engine with enormous power starting from the low rpms.”

Entrusted to drivers Gianni Morbidelli and Christian Fittipaldi, the Minardi M191B #003 competed in the first Grand Prix races of 1992 before being replaced by the M192, also equipped with a Lamborghini engine. The best result achieved by the single-seater restored by Polo Storico was 11th place with Christian Fittipaldi at the wheel at the Spanish GP, and it is now ready to return to racing and competing in the championships dedicated to historic F1 races. The testing outcome was very positive: the car ran more than 20 laps without any problem and the Lamborghini engine perfectly maintained all the features that so impressed Ayrton Senna during the tests at Estoril in 1993.

From May 2018, the all-new Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, which includes many class-topping features, immediately becomes part of the premium compact SUV segment.

With a bold design, performance and technology, Stelvio Quadrifoglio clocked a new record for its class on the iconic Nürburgring: 7 minutes 51.7 seconds.

The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is equipped with an exclusive aluminium 2.9 V6 Bi-Turbo petrol engine – developed using technologies and engineering know-how from Ferrari, it delivers maximum power of 510hp at 6,500 rpm and generates a maximum torque of 600 Nm from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. The power plant is teamed with the specifically calibrated eight-speed automatic transmission that allows gearshifts in just 150 milliseconds in Race driving mode – to maximise the driving experience, one-piece aluminium paddle shifters, integral with the steering column, are standard.

Its performance is outstanding: acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and a best-in-class top speed of 283 km/h. But Alfa Romeo’ sports SUV is also incredibly efficient in terms of fuel consumption and emissions, thanks to its electronically controlled cylinder deactivation system and the “sailing” function, available in Advanced Efficiency driving mode.

For the first time, the 510hp 2.9 V6Bi-Turbo petrol engine is combined with theinnovative Q4 all-wheel drive system, which guarantees unbeatable performance, traction, driving pleasure and safety in all situations. Stelvio Quadrifoglio is also equipped with the exclusive Alfa Chassis Domain Control unit and is the only SUV in its class to provide differential Alfa™Active Torque Vectoring as standard. Alsostandard is the innovative Alfa™Active Suspension, a system that continually, actively controls the suspension and shock absorbers.

Impeccable handing and comfort is guaranteed thanks to the Stelvio Q’s suspension layout, with the exclusive AlfaLink™technology – up front it has a double wishbone system with semi-virtual steering axis, with a four-and-a-half link Multilink system at the rear. In any situation and at all speeds, driving the Stelvio Q, which has the most direct steering ratio on the market (12.1:1), is natural and instinctive.

Stelvio Quadrifoglio holds two best-in-class titles that make it the highest-performing SUV in its segment – with a kerb weight of 1,830 kg, it boasts the best weight/power ratio in its category (3.6 kg/hp) and the best specific power (176 hp/l).These amazing results, synonymous with great driving pleasure, were achieved through perfect weight distribution between the two axles and the use of ultra-lightweight materials such as carbon fibre for the driveshaft and aluminium for the engine, suspension, brakes, doors, wheel-arches, bonnet and tailgate.

Another special feature of Stelvio Quadrifoglio is the innovative electromechanical Integrated Brake System (IBS) – an Alfa Romeo brand exclusive, which first appeared on the Giulia – which has become the new benchmark in terms of both swift response and stopping distance on any road surface plus weight reduction compared to a conventional braking system. High-performance carbon-ceramic discs are also available as an option.

Extreme performance and leading-edge technology are unmistakably conveyed by the unique style of Stelvio Quadrifoglio, the finest expression of Italian design, interpreted through Alfa Romeo’s unique flair and the perfect synergy of form and function, in a sensual, muscular car body. The new model’s most distinctive characteristics include the bonnet with functional air vents, sporty side-skirts and massive wheel arches – all body-coloured – plus four exhaust tips.

The same sporty style, with an added touch of typically Italian elegance, is found in the interior, which has been tailored like an exquisite bespoke suit, with painstaking craftsmanship and premium materials – carbon fibre, leather and Alcantara.

The centre of the dashboard is dominated by the new Alfa™ Connect 3D NAV 8.8” infotainment system which includes Apple CarPlay, the smarter, safer way to use your iPhone in car. Android Auto™ is also compatible with the Stelvio Q’s new infotainment system, bringing the best of Google into the car.

The Stelvio also bears the legendary Quadrifoglio badge, which certifies quality in terms of class-topping performance, handling and power to weight ratio, specific external and internal features, exclusive powerplants and a genuine Alfa Romeo sound.

MG Motor has announced that its new MG ZS crossover is now on sale across the Middle East, bringing premium style, without the premium price tag, to customers across the Gulf region. Prices for MG’s new crossover start at around US$12,000 (depending on market) for the entry level 1.5L STD model.

The new MG ZS is now available in three high value trim levels – 1.5L STD, 1.5L COM and 1.5L LUX – the perfect option for buyers seeking a good-looking, well-equipped, well-built car at a sensible price.

The arrival of MG’s new crossover marks an exciting new era of design for the famous British car brand with the introduction of a totally new design philosophy. Based on ‘Emotional Dynamism’, this more expressive design language showcased by the MG ZS is set to feature across all upcoming models, and emphasises the premium experience and commitment to quality of the ambitious brand.

A distinctive grille, increased MG branding and a delicate front end give the car a refined look that carries through its sweeping corners to the robust rear end. A combination of quality and a premium finish have been at the heart of MG’s design philosophy for the MG ZS, with every surface, material and fitting selected for its visual impact, as well as durability and longevity.

Commitment to design excellence is continued in the interior of the MG ZS, with touches that nod to a dynamic and exclusive space for the driver, while being accessible and user-friendly for any passengers. More than 80 percent of the exposed surfaces are covered with soft materials, and a colour contrast from the dark grey base creates a layered effect.

A trend for ‘bigger’ connectivity means MG’s inkaLink system, with 8” infotainment screen and Apple CarPlay, will become a signature of MG going forward as it looks to target a younger generation. A remote smart application will allow the driver to operate vehicle functions such as remote start and stop, manage air conditioning, vehicle tracking and aftersales appointments. It even reminds owners of the services needed for the car.

The MG ZS provides some of the most generous shoulder, leg and headroom capacities in its segment, ensuring a premium travelling experience for driver and passengers alike. A massive 448 litres of boot capacity plus a split-level boot provide plenty of room for all manner of luggage, while there are numerous compartments throughout the car for additional storage. It offers a classic dual colour leather interior and an optional panoramic sunroof (available soon).

The MG ZS has undergone rigorous testing and received a 5-star rating in the C-NCAP crash tests, offering customers additional peace of mind. All models benefit from a strengthened high duty steel passenger safety cage, ESP, ABS, EBD and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), while rear cameras and parking sensors are also available.

With a New Generation NSE Major 1.5L engine it can travel 100km on just 5.8 litres, giving it unrivalled fuel efficiency for its class. When it comes to performance, this efficient petrol unit delivers maximum power of 119 hp and 150 Nm of torque. Delivering true driving excellence, the MG ZS offers three power assisted steering modes – Urban, Normal and Dynamic – which are designed to give the driver complete control. It is equipped with a 4-speed automatic gearbox.

Standard features on all models include one-button start, power adjustable wing mirrors, manual air conditioning, a 60/40 rear seat, height-adjustable steering column and a front armrest. Contributing to the new model’s impressive safety credentials, ABS, EBD, ESP and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) are also standard.

Last year MG’s parent company, SAIC Motor, was listed in the Forbes Fortune 500 list for the 13th consecutive year, ranking #41 overall and 7th amongst all global automakers – the highest ever ranking for SAIC Motor. With global sales revenues of $113.86 billion in 2016 the company is investing heavily in the MG brand.

International riders and UAE dune-bashers dominate the day at Al Badayer

Winners:

MX1 – Docherty (South Africa)

MX2 – Menzies (UK)

ATV – Al Shamsi (UAE)

UTV- Al Falasi (UAE)

During the ATV category races at SSDF 2018

In an intense day of international off-road racing at Al Badayer Desert, spectators were treated to some of the tightest battles and closest finishes in the closing stages of the second Sharjah Sports Desert Festival (SSDF 2018), where the winners were presented with prizes and awards by Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Media Council.

Themed ‘Become a Desert Hero,’ the emirate’s most popular and exciting off-road competition was held under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and organised by Sharjah Sports TV, a subsidiary of Sharjah Media Corporation, who broadcast the gruelling races and results live.

An impressive crowd of motorsports fans and families cheered on more than 65 of the most experienced and successful dune-bashing riders and racers who travelled from as far as the UK, Germany, India, South Africa and around the GCC to take on one of the most challenging courses on the season’s circuit. Following the enormous success of inaugural event in 2017 and the calibre of competitors and standard of racing this year, SSDF is becoming an internationally significant and highly popular fixture on the sporting calendar in both Sharjah’s and the UAE’s sporting calendar.

Beginning the day with the MX1 and MX2 qualifying rounds, ‘Iron’ Mike Docherty from South Africa and Brits Daniel Hutchinson and Ryan Blair came in first second and third respectively in MX1, while the three MX2 qualifiers were Britain’s Ben Menzies, in first place, followed by Kuwaiti Abdullah Al Shatti and Germany’s Tycho Lieske.

Taking part in the time trial format, the All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) races were both high-powered and high-speed with no room for any mistakes on the tight track designed by Emirati motocross and MX rally champion Mohammed Al Balooshi, a former Tunisia Arab Champion and the first Emirati to participate in the Dakar Rally.

Just three seconds separated the first three places in the ATV qualifiers. Flying the flag for the UAE with a clean sweep, Emiratis Mohammed Al Shamsi and Humaid Al Mashghowai came first and second with Mansour Ahmad in third. It was also a 1, 2, 3 UAE finish in the finals, with Al Shamsi followed in first followed by Mansour Ahmad and Jassim Khalifa.

In the massive UTV (Utility Vehicle) category, the knockout rounds saw plenty of thrills and even more spills, with three of the vehicles beached on their sides before the finish line. But the podium places saw more Emirati dominance, with Hussain Al Falasi and Khaled Al Jaffli in first and second with Saif Almuhairi just behind in third.

In the final races of the day, the MX1 and MX2 motocross bikes were back and with some of the closest finishes of the day. In a copycat neck-for-neck dash for the line in MX1, Docherty, Hutchinson and Blair finished in exactly the same order as their qualifiers to take the honours. Uncannily, it was the same story in MX2, with Menzies, Al Shatti and Lieske, mirroring their qualifiers, completing an outstanding day for the international competitors.

Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, said: “One of our core objectives at SMC is to ensure the continuity and innovation in promoting all aspects of Sharjah whether it were tourism, business or sports. Since it is home is to a series of high-profile events every year, we see events such as the Sharjah Sports Desert Festival as an opportunity for audiences to enjoy the high-adrenaline desert sports competitions, and also enjoy the opportunity to experience Sharjah’s rich cultures and nature.”

During the ATV category races at SSDF 2018

He added: “This year’s visitor profiles included youths, families and children of all ages, who have experienced and enjoyed the festival’s full features, activities and entertainment, reflecting once more on the unique platform we have created for Sharjah, making SSDF the emirate’s first of its kind desert festival. This success will surely help us pave the way in growing the festival’s stature even further, and introduce even bigger names from the global motorcross and desert sports industry.”

Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Media Council, presented the prizes and trophies to the winners, made up of AED 10,000 for first place, while second and third places were awarded AED 5,000 and AED 3,000 respectively.

Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council, HE Mohammed Hassan Khalaf, Director General of Sharjah Media Corporation a number of heads and directors of government bodies sponsoring the festival, including Sharjah Government Media Bureau, Sharjah Environment Company (Bee’ah), Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority and Arad Real Estate Investment and Development Company were also present.

Sharjah Sports TV was launched in 2007 under the auspices of Sharjah Media Corporation as a specialised and independent sports satellite television station and a platform to provide media and field coverage of an array of local, regional and international sporting events, tournaments and championships. The channel has specialised studios at sports venues to provide in-depth analysis and coverage.

Al Badayer is one of the most important desert areas in the UAE and is well known for its stunning sand dunes which attract a large number of the UAE’s residents and tourists. Al Badayer is a favourite spot for fans of camping and Safari trips for off road driving. Strategically located adjacent to the Dubai-Hatta Road, the Al Badayer area is also equipped with all necessary security measures to ensure visitors’ safety.

We recently ventured into Italy to witness Automobili Lamborghini launch its third model, the Lamborghini Urus. The Lamborghini Urus is the first Super Sport Utility Vehicle and hence creates a new niche in the luxury segment with benchmarking power, performance and driving dynamics, unparalleled design, luxury and daily usability.

The Lamborghini Urus stays true to the Lamborghini DNA in terms of design, performance, driving dynamics and emotion and is drivable every day in a range of environments. It is in other words a powerful luxury SUV with a super sports car dynamism that can be enjoyed by both driver and passengers.

Its low-line coupé styling and commanding road position gives it a super car look and feel but once we got in and, it felt comfortable with a higher ground clearance and the luxurious space inside is coupled with the latest technologies.

The Urus provides easy driving in the city, maximum comfort during long journeys, thrilling super sports car dynamics on the road and track, and versatile off-road abilities in a range of environments.

The Lamborghini Urus has a dual personality: it is multi-dimensional. It can be specified to be as sporty or as elegant as the owner wishes, and can equally be used as a daily luxury drive or provide an exhilarating super sports experience.

The driving modes to select from include the Strada, Sport, Corsa, Neve, Terra and Sabbia and there offers a more enhance drive experience on road, track, sand, snow etc.

The Urus features a 4.0 liter V8 twin-turbo engine delivering 650 hp (478 kW) at 6,000 rpm, maximum 6,800 rpm, and 850 Nm of maximum torque already at 2,250 rpm. With 162.7 hp/l the Urus claims one of the highest specific power outputs in its class and the best weight-to-power ratio at 3,38 kg/hp.

The Urus accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 12,8 seconds and with a top speed of 305 km/h. This makes it the fastest SUV available on the market.

The Lamborghini URUS is built in an entirely new factory using the latest robotic manufacturing technology to work in tandem with the human workers on the floor and where we were for the launch event.

Luxury crossover vehicles is popular this year with almost every brand so we ventured out to test the Cadillac XT5 crossover which combines space, luxury and high-tech convenience resulting in a perfect lightweight Touring vehicle.

The 2017 Cadillac XT5 is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that previously seen in the brand’s ATS and CTS sport sedans and is currently featured in the CT6. With SAE-certified peak output of 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 367 Nm (271 lb-ft) of torque, the V6 uses variable valve timing for strong response and smooth power delivery.

Much lighter that the SRX, the Cadillac XT5 comes with a design structure specifically created to improve fuel economy, driving dynamics and interior space. It is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that previously were introduced in the ATS and CTS sport sedans and now used in the CT6.

Key features include the rear camera mirror, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibilities, auto-heated steering wheel and front- and rear-seat USB capabilities. There is space for both phones and tablets in the center console, WiFi capabilities and charging ports conveniently accessible in the front and rear seats.

Interior surfaces inside the XT5 are wider and more horizontal in orientation, emphasizing space-efficiency with the usual cut-and-sewn wrapped panels. It is simple but sophisticated with reduced visual noise and clutter. The XT5 includes five interior color and trim choices, with decorative trim options ranging from carbon fiber to two types of aluminum and four types of genuine wood.

Cadillac’s Stop/Start technology automatically stop and start the engine when the vehicle is at rest in traffic stops, saving fuel and reducing emissions, while enhancing the quietness expected of a luxury vehicle.

An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard for the XT5, which also debuts Electronic Precision Shift – the first electronically controlled transmission shifter for a Cadillac. Electronic Precision Shift reduces noise and vibration, and it allows the cabin space to be further utilized with an innovative storage space beneath the center console.

The 2018 XT5 sets a high standard for technology and safety features. Cadillac’s patented new industry-leading Rear Camera Mirror system is standard on 2018 XT5 Platinum models. The system enhances the driver’s rear vision by 300 percent, using a video display applied over the conventional inside rearview mirror. A Surround Vision feature enables a “bird’s eye” view of the perimeter around the car in parking as well.

The crossover’s lean and sleek design and structure reflect the renowned Cadillac expertise for lightweight and agile luxury cars with improved interior space and fuel efficiency. The exterior stands out with flowing uninterrupted lines separated by crisp edges and hence reflects a more elegant, clean and modern craftsmanship.

The sporty and dynamic SUV with the four rings recently came into our hands in the form of the new Q5 and SQ5 – both models that combine the sportiness of an Audi sedan with a multifaceted character of an SUV and a highly flexible interior.

We tested the new SUV on normal roads and the mountains of Salalah in Oman.

The new Q5 also stands at the top of its class in its aerodynamics. The four-cylinder versions attain a cd figure of 0.30 with the aerodynamically optimized roof. Wind noises are exceptionally low, and vibration comfort is high – the new SUV from Audi indulges the driver and passengers with the best interior acoustics in its class.

It comes in 12 different exterior colours (plus Audi Exclusive) and three newly configured equipment lines are available – base, sport and design. It also features a sculpturally flared Singleframe grille while a solid frame dominates its aerodynamically flat front end.

The interior offers significant space for five persons, and it surpasses the previous model and its competitors in key dimensions. Its horizontally oriented lines underscore the impression of width and comfort, and a three-dimensional trim strip runs across the entire width of the instrument panel. The new equipment lines concept offers customers a broad selection of colours and materials.

Operation of the new Audi SUV is intuitive and is marked by three great new features. The Audi virtual cockpit presents brilliant graphics on its high-resolution 12.3-inch screen. The MMI terminal in the centre console acts as the main control element and its logic is based on the flat hierarchies used in today’s smartphones.

For music lovers, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with innovative 3D sound introduces the spatial dimension of height while the Audi smartphone interface also brings Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into the new Q5 model range.

With its driver assistance systems, the new Audi Q5 and SQ5 also tops its segment with a range of high-tech options offered in one package – “City assist with Parking assist”

Cross traffic assist rear, the exit warning system, collision avoidance assist and turn assist are other new features that perform excellently in pursuit of safety. Park assist and hill descent assist complete the new features offered.

In summary, the drive with the Audi SQ5 on different terrains proved how versatile and sporty the new SUV is. Plus it is elegant, comes with numerous personalization options, offers generous space and with technology that it is best in its class.

As global leaders gathered at COP23 in Bonn, Germany, 18 key leaders in their industry verticals, united in the Hydrogen Council coalition, came together to launch first-ever globally quantified vision of the role of hydrogen, developed with support from McKinsey & Company. In addition to being a key pillar in the energy transition, the study shows that hydrogen has the potential to generate US$2.5 trillion worth of business, creating more than 30 million jobs by 2050.

Taking the Hydrogen Council’s vision for hydrogen to the next level, the study entitled ‘Hydrogen, scaling up’ outlines a comprehensive and quantified roadmap to scale deployment and its enabling impact on the energy transition.

Deployed at scale, hydrogen could account for almost one-fifth of total final energy consumed by 2050. This would reduce annual CO2 emissions by roughly 6 gigatons compared to today’s levels, and contribute roughly 20% of the abatement required to limit global warming to two degrees Celsius.

On the demand side, the Hydrogen Council sees the potential for hydrogen to power about 10 to 15 million cars and 500,000 trucks by 2030, with many uses in other sectors as well, such as industrial processes and feedstocks, building heating and power, and power generation and storage. Overall, the study predicts that the annual demand for hydrogen could increase tenfold by 2050 to almost 80 exajoules (EJ) in 2050, meeting 18% of total final energy demand in the 2050 two-degree scenario. At a time when global populations are expected to grow by two billion people by 2050, hydrogen technologies have the potential to create opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

“The world in the 21st century must transition to widespread low-carbon energy use,” said Takeshi Uchiyamada, Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation and Co-chair of the Hydrogen Council. “Hydrogen is an indispensable resource to achieve this transition because it can be used to store and transport wind, solar, and other renewable electricity to power transportation and many other things. The Hydrogen Council has identified seven roles for hydrogen, which is why we are encouraging governments and investors to give it a prominent role in their energy plans. The sooner we get the hydrogen economy going, the better, and we are all committed to making this a reality.”

Achieving such scale would require substantial investments; approximately US$20 to 25 billion annually for a total of about US$280 billion until 2030. Within the right regulatory framework – including long-term, stable coordination, and incentive policies – the report considers that attracting these investments to scale the technology is feasible. The world already invests more than US$1.7 trillion in energy each year, including US$650 billion in oil and gas, US$300 billion in renewable electricity, and more than US$300 billion in the automotive industry.

“This study confirms the place of hydrogen as a central pillar in the energy transition and encourages us in our support of its large-scale deployment. Hydrogen will be an unavoidable enabler for the energy transition in certain sectors and geographies. The sooner we make this happen, the sooner we will be able to enjoy the needed benefits of hydrogen at the service of our economies and our societies,” said Benoît Potier, Chairman and CEO, Air Liquide. “Technologies are mature and industry players are committed. We need concerted stakeholder efforts to make this happen; leading this effort is the role of the Hydrogen Council.”

The launch of the new roadmap came during the Sustainability Innovation Forum in the presence of 18 senior members of the Hydrogen Council led by co-chairs Takeshi Uchiyamada, Chairman of Toyota and Benoît Potier, Chairman and CEO, Air Liquide, and accompanied by Prof. Aldo Belloni, CEO of The Linde Group, Woong-chul Yang, Vice Chairman of Hyundai Motor Company, and Anne Stevens, Board Member of Anglo American. During the launch, the Hydrogen Council called upon investors, policymakers, and businesses to join them in accelerating deployment of hydrogen solutions for the energy transition. It was also announced that Woong-chul Yang of Hyundai Motor Company will succeed Takeshi Uchiyamada of Toyota in the rotating role of the Council’s co-chair and preside the group together with Benoît Potier of Air Liquide, in 2018.